Brain Injuries: What You Need to Know About Concussions

Posted By Maher Law Firm || 19-Apr-2017

Concussion Causes

A concussion is a type of traumatic
brain injury which is caused by a severe blow to the head or body, a hard fall, or
another injury which shakes or jars the brain within the skull. While
your brain is surrounded by spinal fluid that acts as a cushion to prevent
your brain from banging into your skull, a traumatic blow can result in
your brain crashing into your skull.

There are many ways to suffer a concussion. Some common ways include
car accidents,
falls, sports-related incidents, and even fights.

Concussion Symptoms

In many cases, it can be difficult to know if someone has a concussion.
You do not have to pass out to have one. Symptoms range from mild to severe
and can last for hours, days, weeks, or perhaps months.

The following are the common symptoms of a concussion in four main categories:

Physical

Headache

Dizziness

Nausea

Vomiting

Blurry vision

Balance and coordination issues

Sensitivity to noise or light

Fatigued

Thinking and remembering

Clouded or slowed thoughts

Concentration difficulties

Memory issues

Emotional and mood

Mood swings

Easily angered or upset

Sad

Nervous or anxious

Sleep

Having a difficult time falling asleep

Sleeping more than usual

Sleeping less than usual

Concussion Diagnosis

Any individual who believes to have suffered a concussion must see a doctor
immediately. If a doctor thinks that you have a concussion, he or she
will ask questions about the injury that test your ability to pay attention,
learn, and remember. Your doctor may also try to determine how quickly
you are able to solve problems. In addition, a doctor may order imaging
tests, such as an MRI or a CT scan, to ensure your brain is not bleeding
or bruised.

Concussion Treatment

As soon as some people are seen by a doctor, they may have to remain in
the hospital to be under constant surveillance. On the other hand, there
are those who are able to recover at home.

Some people may regain normal functions of their brain and body within
a few hours, while other may experience symptoms for weeks and months.
It is imperative to give yourself time to heal and slowly return to your
regular activities. However, if your symptoms come back when you are performing
an activity, give yourself some rest for the day since this is a common
sign that you are pushing yourself too hard.

The following are tips to help you get better:

Take it easy throughout the day and get plenty of sleep in the evening

Avoid drinking alcohol or taking illegal substances

Do not take any other medication unless your doctor approves

Avoid activities which are physically and mentally demanding

Use an ice or cold pack on any swelling for 10 to 20 minutes at a time
– have a thin cloth between the ice and your skin

Use pain medicine as directed by your doctor

If you suffered a brain injury in a car accident caused by a negligent
party in Florida, it is imperative to obtain experienced legal consultation
to recover financial compensation to pay for medical expenses, lost wages,
as well as pain and suffering.
Contact The Maher Law Firm and request a
free consultation with our Orlando personal injury attorney today.

The Maher Law Firm

Orlando Personal Injury Attorney

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